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Chicken Broccoli Alfredo
Chicken Broccoli Alfredo is a creamy, quick-to-make pasta dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights. With tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and rich Alfredo sauce, it’s sure to become a family favorite!
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Indulge in the creamy, delicious flavors of Chicken Broccoli Alfredo, perfect for any weeknight dinner! With tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and rich Alfredo sauce, this dish comes together in just 30 minutes. It's a family favorite that pairs perfectly with garlic bread or a crisp side salad. You'll love how simple yet satisfying this comforting pasta recipe is!
This easy-to-make recipe has step-by-step photos and directions for guidance. You'll also find pro tips and tricks to perfect the dish, plus answers to the most frequently asked questions! Follow the guide below to whip up this delicious meal in no time!
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Chicken Broccoli Alfredo is the perfect 30-minute meal for busy weeknights or special family dinners. The creamy Alfredo sauce, tender chicken, and crisp broccoli create a comforting dish that everyone will love. This recipe stands out because it’s simple yet flavorful, making it great for potlucks or dinner parties. You’ll love how easy it is to prepare, and the rich, satisfying taste will have everyone coming back for seconds!
Ingredients
What you'll need to make this Chicken Broccoli Alfredo recipe:
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 1½ pounds of boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch bite-sized pieces
- 1½ teaspoons of salt, divided into 1 teaspoon and ½ teaspoon
- ½ teaspoon of black pepper
- 6 tablespoons of salted butter
- 1 tablespoon of minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
- 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour
- 1½ cups of whole milk
- 1¼ cup of heavy whipping cream
- 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese (plus additional for garnish)
- 8 ounces of fettuccine noodles, cooked and drained according to package directions
- 3 cups of small broccoli florets (from 1 head of fresh broccoli), steamed until slightly tender and bright green in color
Substitutions and Additions
Personalize your Chicken Broccoli Alfredo recipe by swapping out ingredients and adding delicious extras! These simple changes can make your pasta dish uniquely yours. Here are some top substitutions and additions.
Substitute Alfredo Sauce: Try a homemade Alfredo sauce or use a pesto sauce for a fun flavor change.
Substitute Chicken: Use shrimp or diced turkey for a different protein in your Chicken Broccoli Alfredo.
Substitute Broccoli: Swap the broccoli with spinach or asparagus for a fresh twist on your Alfredo pasta.
Add Bacon: Mix in crispy bacon pieces for a savory addition that adds extra flavor to your Alfredo.
Add Mushrooms: Toss in sautéed mushrooms for a rich, earthy taste that complements the creamy sauce perfectly.
How to Make Chicken Broccoli Alfredo
Pro Tip
Cook the fettuccine noodles al dente, following the package instructions. They will continue to cook slightly when added to the sauce, so slightly undercooking them ensures they won’t become mushy.
Follow along with our pictures and step-by-step instructions to make this delicious Chicken Broccoli Alfredo. Check out the tips and tricks listed below for extra guidance. Let’s get started!
FIRST STEP: In a large 12-inch, heavy-duty skillet over medium-high heat, add the olive oil, chicken breast pieces, 1 teaspoon salt, and black pepper.
Cook and brown the chicken pieces until lightly golden and cooked through. This should take between 6–8 minutes. Remove the cooked chicken from the skillet and place onto a plate. Set aside.
Pro Tip
For tender and juicy chicken, don’t overcrowd the skillet. Cook in batches if needed, allowing enough space between the chicken pieces to ensure even browning. Overcooking can make the chicken dry, so aim for a golden exterior and fully cooked interior.
SECOND STEP: Turn the heat to the skillet down to medium and add the salted butter, minced garlic, garlic powder, and remaining ½ teaspoon salt. Cook the garlic just until tender and fragrant.
THIRD STEP: To the skillet of garlic butter, sprinkle the all-purpose flour and whisk until the flour is completely absorbed by the butter.
FOURTH STEP: Slowly pour in the whole milk and heavy cream while whisking continuously until no lumps of flour and butter remain.
Bring the mixture to a bubble, then reduce the heat to low and simmer the Alfredo sauce for 2–3 minutes, or until thickened. Be sure that you are whisking often to ensure that the sauce does not burn.
Pro Tip
To achieve a silky-smooth Alfredo sauce, be patient while whisking. Ensure the flour is fully absorbed by the butter before adding the milk and cream. Whisk continuously to prevent lumps and keep the heat on low to simmer gently until thickened.
FIFTH STEP: Once the sauce has thickened, whisk in the grated parmesan cheese until fully incorporated.
SIXTH STEP: Add the cooked pasta, steamed broccoli florets, and chicken pieces to the skillet of Alfredo sauce.
Using tongs, gently fold all the ingredients into the sauce until well coated in Alfredo sauce. Remove from the heat. You can add a sprinkle of additional Parmesan cheese if desired for garnish.
How to Serve Chicken Broccoli Alfredo
Chicken Broccoli Alfredo is versatile and works for many occasions, making it perfect for family dinners or special gatherings. Whether you’re hosting a party or just looking for comfort food, this recipe shines.
- Weeknight Family Dinners: This recipe is quick, easy, and loved by both kids and adults. The creamy sauce makes it comforting and satisfying. Pair it with garlic bread and a simple side salad for a complete meal.
- Special Occasions and Parties: Serve this at a dinner party for a rich, hearty main course that feels fancy yet approachable. Complement it with roasted vegetables and a dessert like tiramisu for a special touch.
- Seasonal Comfort Food: Perfect for chilly fall or winter nights, this warm and creamy dish will keep everyone cozy. Pair it with a warm bowl of tomato soup or fresh-baked bread.
Why You'll Love This Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Recipe
This Chicken Broccoli recipe is more than just a pasta dish—it's a beloved favorite for so many delicious reasons:
Creamy, Comforting Goodness: The rich Alfredo sauce, tender chicken, and crisp broccoli come together to create a perfect comfort meal. This creamy, savory combination leaves everyone feeling satisfied and cozy with every bite.
Quick and Easy for Busy Nights: With only 30 minutes needed to whip up this dish, it's the go-to recipe for busy families. The simple ingredients and quick steps make it easy to prepare without sacrificing flavor.
Crowd-Pleaser for All Ages: Both kids and adults love this dish because it’s familiar and packed with flavor. The creamy texture and mild taste appeal to everyone, making it a reliable favorite at family meals.
Chicken Broccoli Alfredo isn’t just a dinner—it’s a comforting classic you’ll come back to again and again!
Recipe FAQ
Can I use fresh or frozen broccoli in Chicken Broccoli Alfredo?
Yes, both fresh and frozen broccoli work great in this recipe. Just steam them before adding to the pasta.
How do I prevent the Alfredo sauce from becoming too thick?
To keep the sauce creamy, add a splash of pasta water or milk if it starts thickening too much.
What kind of chicken should I use for this recipe?
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs work best. Cook them until fully done before mixing with the pasta.
Can I make Chicken Broccoli Alfredo with gluten-free pasta?
Yes, gluten-free pasta works well with this recipe. Just cook the pasta according to the package instructions.
Serving FAQ
How many people does Chicken Broccoli Alfredo serve?
This recipe typically serves four people, but you can easily adjust the portions for larger or smaller groups.
Should I serve Chicken Broccoli Alfredo immediately?
Yes, serve Chicken Broccoli Alfredo hot and fresh. The sauce tastes best when creamy and hasn’t thickened too much.
Can I double this recipe for a larger gathering?
Absolutely! You can double the ingredients to make a bigger batch for parties or family gatherings without changing the cooking time.
How do I make Chicken Broccoli Alfredo kid-friendly?
Kids love this dish! Cut the chicken into smaller pieces, and make sure the broccoli is cooked soft for easy eating.
Storage FAQ
Follow the directions, tips, and tricks below for optimal storage of your Chicken Broccoli Alfredo. From making it ahead to reheating, we've got everything covered so you can enjoy this delicious dish anytime.
Can I prepare Chicken Broccoli Alfredo ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time. Store them separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to a day.
What's the best way to store leftover Chicken Broccoli Alfredo?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. They will stay fresh for up to three days.
Can I freeze Chicken Broccoli Alfredo?
Yes, you can freeze the dish. Place it in an airtight container, and it will keep in the freezer for up to two months.
How should I reheat Chicken Broccoli Alfredo when ready to serve?
Reheat it on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently. Add a splash of milk or water to keep the sauce creamy.
Can I reheat Chicken Broccoli Alfredo in the microwave?
Yes, reheat it in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring in between to ensure even heating without drying it out.
Chicken Broccoli Alfredo
Chicken Broccoli Alfredo is a creamy, quick-to-make pasta dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights. With tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and rich Alfredo sauce, it’s sure to become a family favorite!
Did you try this recipe?Let our readers know how it turned out by Leaving a Review!
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 ½ pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts ( cut into 1” bite-size pieces)
- 1 ½ teaspoons salt (divided into 1 teaspoon and ½ teaspoon)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 6 tablespoons salted butter
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups whole milk
- 1 ¼ cup heavy whipping cream
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese (plus additional for garnish)
- 8 ounces fettuccine noodles (cooked and drained according to package directions)
- 3 cups small broccoli florets ( from 1 head of fresh broccoli, steamed until slightly tender and bright green in color)
DIRECTIONS
- In a large 12-inch, heavy-duty skillet over medium-high heat, add the olive oil, chicken breast pieces, 1 teaspoon salt, and black pepper. Cook and brown the chicken pieces until lightly golden and cooked through. This should take between 6-8 minutes. Remove the cooked chicken from the skillet and place onto a plate. Set aside.
- Turn the heat to the skillet down to medium and add the salted butter, minced garlic, garlic powder, and remaining ½ teaspoon salt. Cook the garlic just until tender and fragrant.
- To the skillet of garlic butter, sprinkle the all-purpose flour and whisk until the flour is completely absorbed by the butter.
- Slowly pour in the whole milk and heavy whipping cream while whisking continuously until no lumps of flour and butter remain. Bring the mixture to a bubble, then reduce the heat to low and simmer the Alfredo sauce for 2-3 minutes or until thickened. Be sure that you are whisking often to ensure that the sauce does not burn.
- Once the sauce has thickened, whisk in the grated parmesan cheese until fully incorporated.
- Add the cooked and drained fettuccine noodles, steamed broccoli florets, and chicken pieces to the skillet of Alfredo sauce. Using tongs, gently fold all the ingredients into the sauce until all the chicken, pasta, and broccoli are coated in alfredo sauce. Remove from the heat. You can add a sprinkle of additional grated parmesan cheese if desired for garnish.
Notes
- Cook the fettuccine noodles al dente, following the package instructions. They will continue to cook slightly when added to the sauce, so slightly undercooking them ensures they won’t become mushy.
- For tender and juicy chicken, don’t overcrowd the skillet. Cook in batches if needed, allowing enough space between the chicken pieces to ensure even browning. Overcooking can make the chicken dry, so aim for a golden exterior and fully cooked interior.
- To achieve a silky-smooth Alfredo sauce, be patient while whisking. Ensure the flour is fully absorbed by the butter before adding the milk and cream. Whisk continuously to prevent lumps and keep the heat on low to simmer gently until thickened.
Nutrition
Calories: 627kcal | Carbohydrates: 22g | Protein: 36g | Fat: 44g | Saturated Fat: 24g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 3g | Monounsaturated Fat: 13g | Trans Fat: 0.5g | Cholesterol: 191mg | Sodium: 1149mg | Potassium: 767mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 5g | Vitamin A: 1648IU | Vitamin C: 43mg | Calcium: 294mg | Iron: 1mg
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Comments
Barbara B says
So delicious 😋
Barbara says
This is my favorite Chicken Alfredo recipe! So fresh and yummy. My family loved it.
DiDi says
This is a WOW! It did take me longer than 35 min to make, but well worth the time.
Renee says
This is the BEST chicken broccoli Alfredo we have ever had! The only change we made was that we browned/cooked the chicken breast whole, and then cut it into bite-size pieces. Easier and stays juicier.